1921 – German City of Lütjenburg – 50 Pfennig

German Notgeld note was issued by the town of Lütjenburg in 1921 during the post-World War I period when local emergency currency was widely used across Germany. Struck in vivid colors and rich line work, this 50 Pfennig note is part of the famous Lütjenburg Notgeld series, known for its strong narrative and historical storytelling.

The obverse illustration depicts a dramatic historical procession titled “Der Botenmelkskrieg” (The Buttermilk War), showing marching townspeople armed with halberds and instruments—an artistic reference to medieval civic conflict and local folklore. Side panels feature uniformed figures blowing horns, reinforcing the sense of movement and alarm.

The reverse design displays a bold municipal coat of arms centered within ornate scrollwork, flanked by the denomination 50 Pfennig. Decorative borders, geometric patterns, and official text confirm its validity and issuance by the Lütjenburger Spar- und Leihkasse, with an expiration notice typical of early 1920s emergency money.

This note is a classic example of German illustrated Notgeld, combining monetary history, regional identity, and artistic craftsmanship. It is highly collectible and sought after by collectors of Weimar-era currency and German municipal issues.

Details

• Date Issued: 1921

• Denomination: 50 Pfennig

• City / Town: Lütjenburg, Germany

• Theme: Local history & folklore – Der Botenmelkskrieg (The Buttermilk War), medieval civic conflict, municipal heraldry